ESM-1 is a 50 kDa proteoglycan that is mainly expressed in the endothelial cells of human lung and kidney tissues . The expression of the ESM-1 gene is regulated by inflammatory cytokines, suggesting its role in endothelium-dependent pathological disorders . ESM-1 can be detected in the human bloodstream and is involved in various physiological and pathological processes, including inflammation, angiogenesis, and lymphangiogenesis .
ESM-1 has been identified as a specific biomarker of tip cells during neoangiogenesis, which is the formation of new blood vessels from pre-existing ones . Its aberrant expression is associated with several pathological conditions, including cancer, sepsis, kidney diseases, and cardiovascular diseases . In cancer, ESM-1 promotes tumor progression and metastasis by regulating tumor cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and drug resistance . It is also involved in the tumor microenvironment, influencing inflammation and angiogenesis .
Due to its significant role in various diseases, ESM-1 is being explored as a diagnostic and prognostic indicator. Its potential as a therapeutic target is also being investigated, particularly in cancer therapy . The recombinant form of ESM-1 (human recombinant) is used in research to study its functions and therapeutic potential.